SILKFAIR Blog – June 2009

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One of the blogs we love is bellepate's "Adventures in Polymer Clay ... and Musings Therein" . It's the place that taught us about sculptable PVC & mokume gane, about bits of life & optimism, but mostly about the hidden art of polymer clay.

She's the inspiration of the article today, a post dedicated to polymer artists on Silkfair.

And we'll obviously start with bellepate & A Beautiful Find: http://bellepate.silkfair.com/, the shop that breaths polymer clay and beautiful jewelry.

Polymer clay filled a gap and gave birth to A bit of color: http://abitofcolor.silkfair.com/ , the store where unique & original fit handmade art perfectly.

Clayful Creations's owner has been creating with clay for more than 15 years. Her goal is to create designs that will brighten your day and a visit to her shop/: http://clayfulcreations.silkfair.com/  will surely bring a smile to your face.

Women artists who work in a variety of sculpting mediums who put passion, whimsy, and love of the craft in every piece they create are the hands behind Funky Folky: http://funkyfolky.silkfair.com/ . This is the shop that sells the doll in the image featured here.

The beads in this bracelet: http://hrtsmom.silkfair.com/212131 are swirly-color polymer clay and glass, and in the middle is a pair of brass clapper bells from India

Bright and funky are the right words for Merkaba's earrings: http://merkabajewelry.silkfair.com/181452  that feature vivid green Kazuri clay beads that are large and round, gorgeous Lapis rectangles, and sterling silver accents.

Polymer clay is an important part of the yummy mellow caramel rose row counter bracelet: http://jedsjoy.silkfair.com/176567 from Jed's Joy.

This Polymer Clay Butterfly Pendant: http://krisybird.silkfair.com/203666 is a dynamic piece created by Krisybird through sanding the piece with several different grits of sandpaper, and giving it a light glaze to bring out the colors and add shine.

This phone charm: http://pastrystitches.silkfair.com/180099 is made out of kato polyclay, the strongest polymer clay on the market. After being baked in an oven, it was painted with a glossy paint and it's now waiting the right customer on the shelves of Pastry Stitches.

And last but not least, let's not forget about people with pets. This key chain: http://hobbytimedesign.silkfair.com/172684 is a must for anyone with four legged friends.

What are your thoughts on polymer clay?


Ultimate

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Ever wanted your own online Custom Shop but…

- was overwhelmed by figuring out where to start?
- not familiar with the programming & design that goes into creating your own site?
- was distressed about setting up and customizing it?
- worried about the security of your store?
- didn’t think you had enough time to set-up and maintain it?

Custom shop is a new upgrade from Silkfair Market Shop that allows you to completely customize the look and layout of their stores, putting you entirely in charge of your brand.

With Custom Shop from Silkfair, you’re given step-by-step customization with the click of your mouse.  Choose from 10 different ready-made templates, which can be customized with your store logos, images, and colors allowing you to brand yourself the way you see fit.  If you’re HTML savvy, you can put those skills to work and create an entirely unique template too.  You also can forward your own domain, a URL chosen by you.

In just a manner of minutes, you can go from a Market Shop like this: http://bjohnsonjewelry.silkfair.com/

to a Custom Shop like this: http://bjohnsonjewelry.com/

You will of course then have two shop presence but with the efficient management of one, because both shops share the same listings!

Those who have already signed up are raving about the upgrade saying:

"I made mine match my blog...I'm not planning on directing people to  any longer." - Yoboseiyo of Jewelry Ninja

"Very positive experience working with the customizable store...This is truly awesome!" - Rich of The Steam Shoppe

Craft Marketer blog said :
"In simple terms, Silkfair is taking the best characteristics of Google’s Blogger and bringing them to the boutique web store (i.e. total customization, zero coding required, etc. – they outfit you with your own blog, forum, marketing tools, etc.)."

AuctionBytes blog said :
"Silkfair Custom Shop, a new ecommerce tool designed to offer online sellers unmatched set-up speed, customization and ease-of-use. With Custom Shop, Silkfair sellers can create their own web brand, personalize every aspect of their store, use their own domain name and take advantage of the numerous built-in interactive marketing tools for blogging, customer forums, product videos, search engine optimization (SEO) and more."

Custom Shops are reasonably priced; a low, monthly fee of $24.99 and a 3% final sales fee.  Currently Silkfair is running two promotions; an introductory plan where the Custom Shop is $14.99 for the first six months or sellers can receive the first two months free by using the coupon code "launch09pub".  The offering is risk-free, and can be cancelled at any time with no long term obligations.

If you currently have a Silkfair shop, you can begin customizing your shop by going to My Store → Manage My Store → Custom Design or https://secure.silkfair.com/mysilk/template/welcome

If you don't currently have a Silkfair shop, you can begin by setting up a Silkfair shop.  Visit My Store → Manage My Store  or https://secure.silkfair.com/mysilk/store  to get started.

Your shop. Your way.

Knit, knit for a bit!

Jun 22, 2009
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It's the middle of the summer, we know it.  We mostly showcase sellers & items related to the season. We are, however, thinking that sellers that specialize in winter related products deserve a thumbs up, too. For this reason, today is Knitters Day.

Let's salute the celebration of knits of all kind and the amazing artists that create them.

Made for me by Oakley enters the scene with a colorful sweater: http://madeformebyoaklie.silkfair.com/155944  This one is in browns, grey and burgundy but the creator can work it out in different colors, too. We used the photo as representative for the article, too.

Sometimes it's fun to take a break from complicated things and do a nice, straightforward, simple project. It's what Naughty Monkeys did through this hand knitted scarf: http://naughtymonkeys.silkfair.com/185585

Ayala Novelties is a great example of exceptional craftsmanship for babies & kids. The character hand-made Crocheted All-Star sneaker Booties: http://ayalanovelties.silkfair.com/212177 are simply beautiful.

BetternBefore reminds us how important recycling is through this ACEO CARD CASE knit from recycled plastic bags: http://betternbefore.silkfair.com/182963

Homespun yarn is incredibly soft and has a great textured, cozy look. Merkaba's Soft Green Scarflette with Buttons: http://merkabajewelry.silkfair.com/181407 is a perfect proof of softness.

Meema Magic & knitting are old friends. The cute little Toddler Hat made of the softest Angel Hair yarn with a little contrasting flower on the side: http://meemamagic.silkfair.com/149627 underlines the purity & beauty of any toddler.

Knittings can be the final touch in a more elegant outfit, too. Wearing this unique triangular shawl http://selecta6.silkfair.com/181471 will earn you everybody's admiration.

If you don't want to come out of your jeans, there's no problem. Compliment them with a lovely scarf: http://acozylife.silkfair.com/149604 from A Cozy Life.

Kaye from Kaye's Kreations has been crocheting for 16 years. She makes a range of items from baby items to flip flops and a lot of in between. If you want something in particular, she's probably the one who can make it for you.

Hook Yarn Inker is a fanatic about crochet. She creates amazing crochet hats and accessories and her market bags are environmentally friendly and fashionable at the same time.

How about you? Have you ever knitted anything or you prefer wearing the lovelies?

Following the thread ambs opened about the night chat, and the question A Cozy Life raised, drop a vote if you'd like us to double the weekly event and hold one during the day, too.

Anyone interested in attending an event during the day?

Google Chart

Winner choice: None

Total Votes: 5

Closed

Following the thread ambs opened about the night chat, and the question A Cozy Life raised, drop a vote if you'd like us to double the weekly event and hold one during the day, too.

A Wedding Parade

Jun 15, 2009
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Something old,
Something new,
Something borrowed,
Something blue.

We’re talking weddings today. Even better, we’re talking brides & bridesmaids, invitations, jewelry & other accessories.

Spa Lady http://spalady.silkfair.com/ offers some of the most unique and affordable wedding favors, and gifts.  Being in the business, she’s also quite a helper in the treat & pamper session you deserve before the Big Day.

Zoel is the perfect choice if you’re looking for funky invitations for a thematic wedding for example.  The penguin invitations http://zoel.silkfair.com/176318  are the cutest and make us forget the hot weather outside.

Mishka has thought of each guest, and the bridesmaids have a special place in her shop. Our favorite are the lingerie invitations http://mishkainvitations.silkfair.com/148475

Diana Evans is another amazing artist who knows the importance of the bridesmaids. The “Will you be my bridesmaid?” http://dianaevans.silkfair.com/175566 dress pattern is simply gorgeous.

If you are planning a tropical destination wedding or you just love the beach, Terry Taylor has created an invitation package that makes the perfect statement http://territaylordesign.silkfair.com/172017 . Original shell and starfish illustrations adorn each of the items. The design uses a subtle, natural palette of white, off-white, sand and pink.

The Big Day has a problem, it only lasts one day. With memories to cherish forever, go for a constant reminder with 12 faces of Love that are present in this round mini scrapbook tucked inside a scented box. http://worksofheart.silkfair.com/176783

This frame http://memoriesunderglass.silkfair.com/181134  makes a wonderful memento of that special day. It is covered heavily in clear glitter and topped with a shear ribbon and a trio of clay roses with leaves. It’s an original and unique statement of your wonderful wedding.

There’s no wedding without roses. This set of boxes of beautiful rose-shaped soap petals with ribbons are the perfect complement for a rosy wedding. http://greenmountainbotanicals.silkfair.com/172560

Bridal keepsake ribbon heart http://flowersbyfarha.silkfair.com/148308 made from white taffeta ribbon & embellished with 3 satin-edge sheer roses & pink stamens. Flowers is a talented artist and she can create custom orders based on your ideas & requirements. So feel free to indulge!

A warm peachy glow with a woman’s soft touch will be the perfect bracelet to wear on your special wedding day. C Barker Designs has one http://cbakerdesigns.silkfair.com/148159 that appears to be the right choice.

Simple, classic, elegant. http://brandybrookdesigns.silkfair.com/170803 Crystals and pearls come together in a simple drop pendant. Perfect for  a wedding.

Kalicat knows how hard it is to find the perfect rings. She’s giving a glamorous eternity ring option http://kalicat.silkfair.com/170499 with extra details to choose from or a custom requirement only for you.

Weddings can be classic, urban, or romantic and they can also be sheer fairytales. For the very beautiful fairy queen, Thyme2Dream created the Wedding Faery Circlet Tiara Crown http://thyme2dream.silkfair.com/176867 and many other pieces of jewelry for the fairytale wedding.

And the finishing touch comes from a No Name wedding accessory that can be yours if you’re lucky. This elegant beauty with a Silver chain and 2 (two) 8mm Cream/Ivory Swarovski Pearls : http://www.bjohnsonjewelry.com/store/item/206668.xml is perfect for a bride to be. You can see it in the image above and can win it by taking part in BJohnson’s giveaway.


A Tea in the Garden

Jun 11, 2009
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In the forgotten times of history, a tea garden was a place to drink tea, stroll and view statues. It is said that tea parties flourished in the 18th century. http://oldantiqueprint.silkfair.com/144820 They were popular especially among the middle class who loved a Sunday out for a tea party in the countryside. “The march of brick and mortar” invaded these quiet places and step by step tea garden parties lost their initial gist.

Nowadays, tea garden parties still exist, in a different manner that fits the current needs, and we may even say that they go through a second period of flourishing. Gardens and patios easily replace the old tea gardens and people still enjoy a good tea with friends and family.

The weather outside is jolly and we thought of recreating an online tea garden party for you. From pieces of furniture and garden accessories, to different scents of tea and tea sets, we tried not to forget the bird nest, nor other details that make the tea party a real beauty.

This beautiful quilt in a contrasting combination of teal & dark brown in silk looks splendid when spread in your room, or in your patio.  http://thehomecentric.silkfair.com/204004

Pillows are the garden party’s confetti. http://craftsfromtheheart.silkfair.com/156545 . Around the pool, patio or even casually thrown away in an apparent disorder, there are tons of shapes, sizes and prints to pick from.

A chair http://ljhomeaccents.silkfair.com/149461 or two can always come in handy so be sure you have them at hand. The choice is all yours.

Plants and flowers are any garden’s life, and organic gardening is even better.   So, we opted for plant grown without chemicals and using environment friendly practices. Seeds and herbals are harvested, dried, sorted and packaged by hand, thus Green Thing (image used here is from their shop) http://greenthing.silkfair.com/ sounds to be the perfect option.

Where there are plants and flowers, birds come and enchant us with their songs, too. A rustic wood bird house resembling to a hollow log, http://shal.silkfair.com/194627 is a great garden addition.

Brightly bejeweled and lushly outfitted in decadent animal print, this luxurious bed http://myvalleylanegifts.silkfair.com/1257  is the purr - fect place to pamper your four footed friend when you savor your tea and stay for a chat on the patio.

As for teas and tea sets, we believe in connoisseur’s choices http://theteacaddy.silkfair.com/ and given by experience or personal preferences. From a delightful orange tea balanced by the perfect blend of spices and Ceylon tea http://greenmountainbotanicals.silkfair.com/172531 drunk from a China tea cup http://kdmoretti.silkfair.com/177901 , to a fresh and zesty taste that combines black tea and fruit flavors http://redleaftea.silkfair.com/199861 tasted from a delightful tea set  http://teasetseller.silkfair.com/29117 tea is best served as you like it: cold or hot, with extra sugar or lemon, with milk and cookies.

Bubbles are just magic, no matter how old you are http://thyme2dream.silkfair.com/176852 , so take your wand and enjoy your fairy tale garden tea party.


.....A Silkfair feature that inspires.

In a marketplace as vast and diverse as Silkfair, it helps to have effective and easy to use search features to help guide you to the perfect find.  To use the color search, simply go to the left sidebar and select the By Color option.  You can choose any color from the spectrum.

What circumstances call for color shopping?


~Unsure how to get started? Use the color search as a jumping point for diving into Silkfair.
~Need some green turquoise earrings to match your green turquoise bracelet?  Select the perfect color from the menu and enjoy perusing the results.
~Looking for something in that perfect shade of chartreuse?  Pick the closest color from the spectrum and browse throgh the results generated.
~You were previously on Silkfair and are having a bit of trouble locating that vintage blue vase.  Select the color from the menu that closely resembles your find and browse through the results
~You are on the prowl for new, unique sellers or items and you are a highly visual shopper.  Searching by color is the perfect shopping solution.

Random searches always garner new discoveries.  At Silkfair the possibilities are endless.



Electronics Engage

Jun 05, 2009
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While most of us would never admit it, we are all attached to electronics (some for living and breathing and some only because we have to) to help us with our day to day activities.  As you may well know, a large portion of the population considers these items an absolute necessity to function and others consider them pure luxury.  However you categorize them, you have to admit a continued rise in popularity and constant technological innovations make shopping for them equivalent to an education on the way the world moves.

When shopping for electronics on Silkfair, you can either easily search through the categories listed below, that appear in the sidebar, or you can enter specific item searches through our main search engine.

Cameras
Computers
Consumer Electronics
 Audio
 Car Electronics
 DVD Players
 MP3 Players
 Telephones
 Video Games

Is it possible to find design software on Silkfair? Visit Hitech for a peak http://hitech.silkfair.com/

Searching for electronics at wholesale prices? You might find what you're looking for with a great price to boot in the Wholesale Dealers shop http://mweb680.silkfair.com/

Need something simple, but sleek and sophisticated that will do just about everything?  Meet the iphone http://lucas411.silkfair.com/203242

Even though some of us tend to shop online through the same categories or in the same places.  It's nice to know that at Silkfair, you can find a variety of items for a variety of occasions and a variety of preferences.  It's one stop shopping, literally.

Happy perusing!


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After the  „reuse, recycle, revamp”  article, we decided to continue the eco-trend by sharing a couple of Silkfair green members and their collections.

At Naughty Monkeys: http://naughtymonkeys.silkfair.com/, most everything  is made out of cast-offs -- sweaters having a second life as tote bags, bracelets made from recycled fabric and costume jewelry, and other stuff, too.

LiveLoveCraft: http://livelovecraft.silkfair.com/ creates lovely crayons made from high quality, non toxic, recyclable materials.

Clementiny Clothing: http://clementinyclothing.silkfair.com/ uses only Recycled, Re-purposed , and Vintage materials to sew beautiful clothes for ladies and toddlers alike.

Kaye’s Kreations http://kayeskreations.silkfair.com/ is a mommypreneur who offers a unique selection of different items. From head to toe, there’s something in her shop for you.

Notuboc http://www.silkfair.com/store/index/1082.xml started the analogue revolution through her recycled creations. This is the place for delicious (you'll know what we mean after you check them out) journals and books.

Australia’s green creations are here through Eryka’s acid free scrapbooking embellishments and card toppers: http://eryka91.silkfair.com/.

Kimberly’s Candles http://kimberlyscandlesandmore.silkfair.com/ offer a handmade scent of votive holders, candle and tart melt warmers, full strength fragrance oils, scented carpet freshener, and aroma bead sachets.

Reuse and still have beauty with Recupe/Fashion : http://recupefashion.silkfair.com/ All handmade in a smoke free environment.

Ella Rose Minerals http://ellaroseminerals.silkfair.com/ are the natural scientists who pride on Integrity, honesty and purity of ingredients in the make up products they sell. The image we used is from their shop.

We are aware we missed many other gorgeous collections, therefore come drop a comment with yours.